Revisiting Dilip Kumar’s stellar performances

As the world woke up to the news of legendary actor Dilip Kumar passing away yesterday (July 7), an era in Bollywood came to a sudden end. In a career span of nearly six decades, the star gave several unforgettable movies and moments that have been forever etched in the minds of his fans. Known as the 'Tragedy King' and the 'First Khan', he will always be credited for bringing realism into Hindi cinema. His smoldering intensity, and delivery filled with deep pauses, along with his ability to portray a range of characters was a joy to watch for audiences. Although we can talk about Kumar's importance in Hindi cinema for days on end, his greater legacy was that of an artiste who inspired generations of actors and filmmakers. That being said, here are a few of his iconic film roles.

Devdas (1955)

The painful saga of love and romance, which was based on Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel of the same name till date is regarded as one of the finest works of the superstar. The Bimal Roy directorial saw Kumar nailing the measured portrayal of a man on the road of destruction at hands of love and alcoholism.

Devdas, based on Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel of the same name till date is regarded as one of the finest works of Dilip Kumar.

Mughal-e-Azam (1960)

The passionate love story of the Mughal prince Salim and a court dancer Anarkali was a huge hit. It is one of the most tragic films by the legendary actor. Kumar's portrayal of the spoiled and mad-in-love prince won this K Asif film several accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi in 1961. His on-screen chemistry with Madhubala, who played Anarkali, captivated audiences. "Mughal-e-Azam" is the first black-and-white Hindi film to be digitally coloured, and given a theatrical re-release. The colour version, released on 12 November, 2004, was also a commercial success.

Shakti (1982)

"Shakti" was notable for being the first and only feature film to have veteran actors Dilip Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan together on screen. It is regarded as that moment in cinematic history where the past merged with the present and framed two great actors together for success.

Babul (1960)

The musical drama saw a tragic love triangle between his character, and noted actors Nargis and Munawar Sultana. The heartwarming film that saw Kumar in the role of a postmaster hailing from a rich family was directed by SU Sunny. Although the film seems like a simple love story of a village postmaster, it explores much deeper issues.

Shakti was notable for being the first and only feature film to have veteran actors Dilip Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan together on screen.

Daag (1973)

The social drama "Daag", produced and directed by Amiya Chakravarty, brought Kumar the first ever Filmfare Award in the main category of best actor. The film sees the rise of a poverty-stricken alcoholic to a wealthy man who again moves towards the path of self-destruction as the family of the love of his life decide to marry her elsewhere. However, the film ends on a good note, with Kumar's character marrying his love interest.

Naya Daur (1957)

Directed by BR Chopra, this romantic love triangle about two best friends falling in love with the same woman (Vyjayanthimala) had spectacular performances by the lead pair, led by Kumar. He won his third Filmfare Best Actor Award in a row, for his stellar performance.

Dilip Kumar won his third Filmfare Best Actor Award in a row, for his stellar performance in Naya Daur.

Deedar (1951)

One of the noted tragedies made in early Indian cinema, "Deedar" revolves around the unfulfilled love of Kumar's character. This film established him as the 'King of Tragedy.' It starred Nargis and Nimmi alongside him.

Madhumati (1958)

This Bimal Roy movie, starring Vyjayanthimala and Pran alongside Kumar, has a gothic noir feel to it. It is yet another iconic film. "Madhumati" is the story of reincarnation and haunted mansions, which intends to make audiences shiver.

Ram Aur Shyam (1967)

Kumar played the double role of brothers Ram and Shyam in the film and gave audiences a glimpse of his comedic brilliance. Since then, many films featuring double roles, such as Hema Malini's "Sita Aur Geeta" to Sridevi's 'Chalbaaz', and Salman Khan's "Judwa", all tried to follow the template of "Ram Aur Shyam" and recreate the magic.

Dilip Kumar played a double role in Ram Aur Shyam.

In Karma, Dilip Kumar played a police officer whose family is killed by the villains, so he hires three convicts to exact his revenge.

Karma (1986)

In this Subhash Ghai directorial, Kumar played a police officer whose family is killed by the villains, so he hires three convicts (Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff and Naseeruddin Shah) to exact his revenge. It was the first time Kumar was paired with Nutan.